Artist Interview: David Sandonato (aka DavidArts)

Every month we feature one of our illustrators or photographers. This month we talk to illustrator David Sandonato, based in Italy, who goes by the alias DavidArts.

How did you get started in illustration?

DS: Three and a half years ago, I saw an article in a magazine about the microstock photography industry. I was curious about this new market and after some research on the web, I found major microstock sites. Then I discovered that this market was also suitable for illustrators. Since I was a child, pencil design, oil and airbrush painting and later all digital art were a huge passion for me. So I started learning Corel Draw and Adobe Illustrator. After two weeks, I was accepted to the first site. From that day on, I’ve created new vectors every day and submitted them on a weekly basis.

David Sandonato

Who or what inspires your work?

DS: A keypoint for contributors is to understand what buyers need. In my case, there’s nothing better than browsing bestselling vectors to see actual trends. Once you’ve found the “theme” that’s popular, you can start to use your imagination to create something competitive to add to the game. I always try to be aware of trends. 50% of my submissions are related to current trends. The other 50% are subjects like backgrounds, disco flyers – whatever inspires me – with no limitations.

DS: One of my favourite subjects is Disco Flyers, full of music related elements and an explosion of colours. I also like to create Vintage Labels, Christmas (and other holiday related) illustrations, abstract backgrounds and website designs. I honestly don’t have a specific favourite subject, the most important thing is that my eyes are satisfied with my creation.

DS: I don’t know if I have a particular style, but many of my friends said they’ve easily recognized my images due to my colour combinations. I usually use bright colours to enhance shapes and composition. I hope the first visual impression of my illustrations induces the viewer to meditate a few seconds on my image and explore it in all its parts. I think color choice is one of the most important things for a successful vector, along with the shapes used and the overall composition.

DS: Great question! I have so many passions. I like to ride my Harley Davidson (painted and modified by myself), go to the gym everyday or go fishing (in the right season). I also like to ride my mountain bike off-road and I really love to catch some sun on the beach! Even though my main job is to create vector illustrations, it really is one of my passions. The idea of “doing what you like to do for your job” is one of the most amazing thing in my life.

What one tip would you share with someone who’s just starting out in the stock industry?

DS: The microstock industry is a really serious business, where only a mix of perseverance, ability and adaptability can help you become a full-time illustrator. If your target is to sell thousands of images every day, you’ll have to build a very big portfolio. You need to focus on quality and quantity, as both are important. Start to design and create every day and never stop. Every new creation will be better than the previous. Like in every business, you have to believe in yourself.

David adds: By the Way… I’m an electronic engineer but I feel more like an artist who has chose to work with his passions.